White Mountain - 10442' | South Twin Peak - 10340' | North Twin Peak - 10196'
Location: 44.57478°N, 114.49604°W
Stats
Date: 09/06/2009
Distance: 7.8 miles
Elevation gain: 3400'
Class (difficulty): 3
Time: 6 hours
Range: Salmon River
Prominence: 3372' for White Mountain, 1045' for South Twin Peak, 1013' for North Twin Peak
Partner(s): John
Report:
After a change in plans, I threw out a new idea to John to get him into some new terrain. We had 2 days to climb, so I suggested we head to Challis and climb White Mountain and the two Twin Peaks on the first day.
We left Boise at 5am. The drive was uneventful, but we did see two porcupines on the way, which was cool.
Our goal was to utilize the road to South Twin Peak (it goes all the way to the 10,340-foot summit) to get us close to White Mountain, highpoint of the Salmon River Range and 11th most prominent peak in Idaho. We parked at a "Park Here" sign at 9600'. We then followed the road for 1/2 a mile and 200 feet to a large switchback. From this switchback, you can clearly see White Mountain to the south. Drop into the saddle on a trail that leaves the road.
Once in the saddle at 9300 feet, cruise up to Point 9872 on steep, but stable slopes. We contoured around the point a bit, but climbing right over it wouldn't cost much time either. From Point 9872 continue on easy slopes to Point 10111. You are now looking up at a steep ridge to the summit.
We bypassed the first tower, going climbers right (west side). We then stuck to the ridge, even when leaving it might have offered easier terrain. The climbing on the ridge was challenging, but safe. The rock was solid for the most part. It was really nice to be fresh for a change on the crux of a route (usually you have climbed hours to get there).
The top had great views. The Twin Creek Lakes were right at our feet. The Lemhi, Beaverhead, Lost River, White Cloud, Sawtooth, and Salmon River ranges were all in view.
Our next goal was South Twin Peak. We dropped back to 9300', before climbing to the top of the lookout at 10340'. We followed the road and its switchbacks, which were pretty tight towards the top. The lookout was well kept up and had great views of White Mountain and our next objective of North Twin Peak.
Instead of punishing ourselves and dropping off South Twin to climb North Twin, we simply hiked down to the car and drove over to the saddle between the twin peaks. From here we had to climb 1000 feet to finish our 3rd peak and end the day of hiking. We were on top in about 45 minutes. However, it was cold and the wind was blowing, so it was pictures, a quick drink and back down to the car. Round trip was 1:15 minutes.
It was now time for a beer, then off to find a camping spot near the Bayhorse turnoff for a bbq and good nights sleep.
Getting There:
Just north of Challis on US 93, turn onto Clinic Road. This will intersect with Challis Creek Road. Turn Right onto Challis Creek Road. You will be following the road signs going to Sleeping Deer Lookout. From town, the distance is about 18 miles into the Twin Peaks area. Signs will tell you when it is time to turn off for South Twin Peak.
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